Pulmonary & Respiratory Information

Get the most out of upcoming Cottage Health pulmonary or respiratory appointments by reading reliable, up-to-date medical information for the knowledge you need to make informed decisions about health care for yourself or a loved one.

Download and review any of the following handouts recommended by your doctor. Write down your questions or concerns, and bring them with you to your appointment.

Diagnostic Procedures

Bronchoscopy Patient Education Guide [PDF] – Learn how to prepare for and what to expect during this procedure to examine your lungs’ major air passages.

Pulmonary Function Testing: Patient Instructions [PDF] – Get directions on medications, foods and activities to avoid in the two days leading up to your pulmonary function tests.

Pulmonary Conditions

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) [PDF] – Learn about the causes, symptoms and treatment options for COPD, a disease that makes it difficult to empty air from your lungs.

Information for Patients Complaining of Cough [PDF] – Find answers to frequently asked questions about causes of coughing, the relationship between smoking and coughing, treatment options and more.

Vaccines

Pneumococcal Polysaccharide Vaccine: What You Need to Know [PDF] – Find out who needs a pneumonia vaccine, how many doses are needed, how to spot signs of allergic reaction and more.

Shingles Vaccine: What You Need to Know [PDF] – Find out who needs a shingles vaccine, how to spot signs of an allergic reaction and more.

Medicare Coverage for the Shingles Vaccine (Zostavax) [PDF] – Get details on whether your Medicare plan covers the cost of Zostavax.

Tetanus, Diphtheria & Pertussis (Tdap) Vaccine: What You Need to Know [PDF] – Learn who needs a Tdap vaccine or “booster” dose, how to spot signs of an allergic reaction and more.

Smoking Cessation

Breathe Well: Get The Help You Need to Quit Smoking [PDF] – Find comprehensive information about services in Santa Barbara County to help you quit smoking.